Step 1

Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/350°F/gas mark 4, and lightly grease a 1.5-litre ovenproof dish. Heat the oil in a frying pan and fry the bacon and onion over a medium heat for 4-5 minutes until beginning to brown.

Step 2

Chop the thyme leaves, reserving a few to garnish. Place the thyme, cream, milk and garlic in a large pan. Bring to a simmer, add the potatoes, then cover and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the bacon and onions and season with freshly ground black pepper. Place half the potato mixture in the base of the prepared dish, then top with half the sliced cheese. Repeat, finishing with a layer of cheese.

Step 3

Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife, and the top is golden. Garnish with the remaining thyme and serve immediately.